Beware: germs sneak into the most unsuspecting places

You’ll be surprised to know how quickly germs pass on from various unsuspecting sources to your hand and then into your system.

Some of the sources will take you by surprise—your mobile phone, your car keys, your wallet, your laptop, your handbag, your make-up kit…phew and the list goes on. And you thought your hands caught germs only when you touched something visibly dirty.

Here are a few useful suggestions that will go a long way in protecting you from most of the infections caused by the all-pervasive germs.

• Dress comfortably as per your body preference and the weather outside. Use a deodorant or talcum powder to keep yourself fresh and cool. This prevents problems like excessive sweating and body odour.
• Freshen up as soon as you enter your office after all that hectic travelling from home [especially if you travel by public transport]. The same applies when you reach home in the evening.
• Keep your office desk clutter-free, as germs tend to accumulate in cluttered areas. Clean your desk surface, computer keyboard and handset of the desk phone periodically with antibacterial sprays.
• Avoid eating at your office desk. Get up and go away from the desk, even if it is only for a snack. Food crumbs on your keyboard and desk are dangerous sources for bacteria to multiply and cause infections. This also has the additional benefit of keeping you active.
• Eat freshly prepared and hot food as much as possible. Avoid eating from unknown places. Preferably eat vegetarian [which is cooked and hot] when out, go for non-vegetarian food only if you are sure of the hygiene practices followed by the eatery.
• Carry your own water wherever possible. If you don’t have your own, opt for packaged mineral water.
• Clean your personal belongings—your car keys, wallet, mobile cover, helmet and other things you regularly use—with a good antibacterial solution at least once a week.
• Wash your hands properly, especially before and after eating. Either use a tested antibacterial liquid or keep a sanitiser handy. It helps kill germs and significantly reduces your chance of falling sick.
• Don’t share your comb, napkin, make-up items and such personal belongings with others.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you pass through polluted areas, more so, if you are allergic to smoke, dust or such pollutants.
• Avoid touching the railings of staircase and elevators. God knows how many hands have touched it before you.
• Carry a personal mug with you if you like stopping for tea/coffee/cold drinks regularly. Drink from your mug or from disposable cups.
• Avoid stuffing your handbag with uncovered foods like vada pav, samosas, bhel, fruits or burgers. Cover them neatly in a foil before putting them into your bag.
• Avoid using roadside public toilets or urinals. If you have to answer nature’s call while on the streets, it’s best to head to a restaurant or shopping mall and use the facilities there. Wash your hands thoroughly after using the washroom.